Gospel musician Alabaster Box has given an update on the ongoing legal dispute with artist Medikal over the sampling of her song “Akwaaba.” The case, which has drawn public attention in Ghana’s music community, centres on allegations that portions of Alabaster Box’s original composition were used without proper authorisation.
In a recent interview, Alabaster Box explained that her legal team is pursuing the matter through the courts to protect her intellectual property rights. She said she has been patient while the process continues but remains firm in her resolve to ensure that artistes’ works are not used without consent or fair compensation. According to her, the case underscores broader concerns about respect for creative ownership in the Ghanaian music industry.
The dispute began when Medikal released his track “Akwaaba,” which features a sample that Alabaster Box claims is directly taken from her own gospel song released several years earlier. She asserts that no licence was granted for the use of the sample and that she was neither consulted nor compensated for its inclusion. This prompted her to file a suit demanding recognition of her rights and appropriate redress.
Alabaster Box noted that the legal process has involved gathering evidence, testimony and expert opinions to support her claim that the sample constitutes a substantial part of her original work. She said that while the matter is before the courts, she is hopeful that the judgement will affirm the importance of protecting artists’ intellectual creations and encourage greater respect for copyright in the industry.
Fans and industry observers have been closely following developments, with many pointing to the case as a precedent for how sampling disputes should be handled in Ghana. Some have expressed support for both artistes, calling for industry guidelines that balance creative freedom with legal protections for original compositions.
As the case progresses, both legal teams are expected to present arguments and evidence in court. Alabaster Box reiterated her desire for a fair outcome that recognises her contribution to the music sampled in Medikal’s song and sends a strong message about upholding artists’ rights.
